Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overwork the meat.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into burger patties, about ½ inch thick. This recipe will yield about 8 patties.
Step 2: Prepare the Pizza Sauce
- Combine Sauce Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the pizza sauce, diced tomatoes, olive oil, oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper until well combined.
Step 3: Layer in the Crockpot
- Add Sauce: Pour a layer of pizza sauce on the bottom of the crockpot to prevent sticking.
- Layer Patties: Place half of the burger patties in the crockpot on top of the sauce.
- Add More Sauce: Spoon some of the pizza sauce mixture over the patties, followed by half of the mozzarella cheese.
- Repeat: Layer the remaining burger patties on top, then pour the remaining pizza sauce over them. Finish with the rest of the mozzarella cheese.
Step 4: Cook the Burgers
- Cover and Cook: Place the lid on the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the burgers are cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 5: Serve
- Prepare the Buns: If using burger buns or sliders, toast them lightly if desired.
- Assemble the Burgers: Using a spatula, carefully lift each burger out of the crockpot and place it on a bun. Top with additional pizza toppings if desired.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for an extra touch of flavor and color.
- Enjoy: Serve your delicious Crockpot Pizza Burgers hot, and enjoy the taste of pizza in every bite!
Tips for the Best Crockpot Pizza Burgers
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to add any of your favorite pizza toppings directly to the burgers or as garnishes when serving.
- Use Leaner Meat: If you prefer a healthier version, you can use ground turkey or chicken, though you may need to adjust cooking times as these can cook faster.
- Make It Low-Carb: Skip the buns and serve the burgers over a bed of lettuce or alongside a fresh salad for a keto-friendly option.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or jalapeño slices to the pizza sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover burger patties and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: These burgers can also be frozen. Allow them to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last for about 3 months in the freezer.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw if frozen, then microwave or heat on the stovetop until warmed through. You can also reheat in the crockpot on low for about an hour.
Conclusion
These Crockpot Pizza Burgers are a game-changer for pizza lovers looking for a fun, easy, and delicious twist on a classic. Perfect for busy evenings or family gatherings, this recipe promises hearty flavors and mouthwatering satisfaction in every bite. So grab your slow cooker and enjoy the comforting taste of pizza in burger form—it’s a meal the whole family will love!
Ready to dig in? Try these Crockpot Pizza Burgers tonight and discover a whole new way to enjoy your favorite pizza flavors!